The Scarlet Band was created in the summer of 2006 to represent all of the BU Bands by performing at the New Student Orientations which take place over 7 weeks in the summer. The Scarlet Band is an audition only select ensemble. Some members in the band receive free summer housing and all members are paid for their participation.

Current members of the Scarlet Band are also members of the Wind Ensemble, Concert Band, Marching Band, Pep Band, Big Band, Honors Combo, Symphony Orchestra, All-Campus Orchestra.